From Kamilu Lawal, Katsina.
The Katsina State Executive Council, under the leadership of the Executive Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, CON, on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, held its first meeting of the year, during which it deliberated on and approved several far-reaching decisions aimed at accelerating development across the state.
At the meeting, the Council approved the implementation of recommendations submitted by a committee set up to review the operations of private tertiary institutions offering NCE and Diploma programmes. The move is aimed at improving quality assurance and raising educational standards in higher institutions within the state.
In a bid to promote youth empowerment and self-reliance, the Council also approved the procurement of start-up tools for 1,169 beneficiaries who successfully completed a joint vocational skills acquisition programme organised by the Katsina State Economic Development Agency (KASEDA) in collaboration with the National Automobile Technicians Association (NATA).
The Council further ratified the award of contracts for the completion of outstanding construction works at the Special Schools in Jikamshi and Dumurkul. The projects, initially commenced under the AGILE programme, had stalled due to funding constraints and will now be completed to enhance access to quality education.
To strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly in rural communities, approvals were granted for the provision of solar-powered boreholes in 68 primary healthcare facilities, as well as the procurement of 68 tricycle ambulances for renovated health centres across the 34 local government areas of the state.
In the agricultural sector, the Council approved contracts for the supply of tractor spare parts and maintenance equipment under the Katsina State Agricultural Mechanisation Programme, with the objective of ensuring optimal performance and longevity of farming machinery.
As part of ongoing public service reforms, the Council adopted the recommendations and decisions contained in the White Paper on the report of the Local Government Staff Verification Committee covering all 34 local government areas. This step forms part of broader efforts to sanitise the system and enhance efficiency in grassroots governance.
The Council also approved the review and streamlining of government procurement processes, from tender invitation to contract approval, in order to improve efficiency, fast-track project execution and curb corruption in public contracting.
In line with environmental sustainability goals, the Executive Council endorsed the full implementation of the Katsina State Green Public Procurement Executive Order, making environmental compliance mandatory in all government-funded contracts.
In the area of commerce and urban renewal, the Council approved the commencement of market redevelopment projects in Dandume (Funtua Zone), Jibia (Katsina Zone) and Mashi (Daura Zone), to transform them into modern markets. Additionally, approval was granted for the construction of a new modern market in Daura, aimed at boosting commercial activities and improving the livelihoods of residents.
These decisions, the Council noted, reaffirm the commitment of the Katsina State Government to good governance, sustainable development and inclusive economic growth for the benefit of the people of Katsina State.
